The re-appointment of Gauteng health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko has rubbed the unions the wrong way as they described it as very unfortunate.
The country’s second-largest trade union federation, the South African Federation of Trade Unions (Saftu), expressed its concern. Saftu spokesperson Trevor Shaku said they are disappointed that a person who has presided over the rot and bungling of Gauteng health has been returned to the office as MEC.
MEC accused of costly bungling
“The healthcare sector is a crucial department in which a single bungling can cost many lives. [Incidents such as] the Life Esidimeni saga are examples of the tragedies that are caused by bungling. Installing people in provincial cabinet who have a record of mismanagement is disappointing. It shows the ANC does not want to redeem itself. Even when the masses have surprised them with a massive rejection. This as seen in the general elections on 29 May,” said Shaku.
Meanwhile, the Health and Allied Workers Indaba Trade Union (Haitu) also expressed a deep concern. It said the re-appointment indicates that the Gauteng provincial government will not be able to fulfil its vision. That of providing services to the people.
Haitu president Rich Sicina said the MEC has a strong finance background.
“She was previously the MEC of finance, and her skill set and experience are in this area. In the past, she was unable to tackle the myriad of issues that affect health in a meaningful way. This because she lacks the understanding to do so,” said Sicina.
He further said Nkomo-Ralehoko launched long existing projects initiated by others as her own. And she was cutting ribbons for departments which most to date remain non-operational.
No qualification, experience in healthcare
“She has no qualifications in healthcare, and has never worked in the healthcare sector. Nothing prior to her appointment as Health MEC, and this is why she failed.”
Sicina highlighted that during Nkomo-Ralehoko’s tenure, security guards at the healthcare facilities are outsourced. This instead of them being insourced.
It has led to numerous opportunists who act as doctors or healthcare professionals. And this is putting the lives of patients and workers at risk.
“Haitu will continue to work to defend workers and their conditions. Workers need a militant union to fight their battles and to improve the conditions in the sector.”
